UCC Fellowship Program- First Ward

The Conservation Fund seeks applicants interested in building a career related to environmental conservation, community engagement, park planning and management, water conservation or GIS, or nonprofit organizational management at the community scale. The UCC Fellowship Program is a good fit for high potential, emerging leaders committed to social justice seeking to expand their management acumen.

UCC Fellows will:

• Gain working knowledge of the effort to incorporate the improvement of outdoor spaces into federal, state and local policies that invest in disadvantaged neighborhoods across the nation.
• Connect with early environmental educators, local community leaders and conservation professionals to build a broader professional network.
• Attend virtual and in-person training sessions and/or certification programs to further develop professional skills.
• Write and edit grant applications.
• Work with the partners to develop strategies for working with local government entities and community members.
• Coordinate the development and implementation of advocacy tactics; this may include drafting content for policymakers, media and both internal and external partner audiences.
• Working with Partnership Managers, lead the creation of a network of equitable green space leaders, thereby building a cohort of influencers and advocates across the nation.
• Work with partner organizations to strengthen community engagement tactics.
• Help partners produce or update data-driven charts, maps and graphics for different target audiences.
• Perform administrative duties and help with shared office tasks as needed.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience with community-based groups, environmental justice, conservation or similar. This can be educational, volunteer or professional experience.
• Interest in supporting community-driven initiatives designed to make neighborhoods safer, greener and more equitable.
• Interest in building a career working within nonprofit, organizing or the public sector.
• Excellent verbal and communication skills.
• Knowledgeable about social and economic justice issues affecting underserved communities.
• Self-starter able to work effectively in both a team-based and independent environment.